Suze Orman Warns 'The Absolute Worst Thing That You Can Be Doing Right Now Is Panic' Because It Hurts Long-Term Security

Suze Orman recently addressed the growing financial anxiety many Americans are feeling, warning that panic is the worst reaction to economic uncertainty. Speaking on her "Women & Money" podcast, Orman emphasized the importance of staying calm and sticking to a solid financial plan — even when the stock market is volatile and the news cycle is unpredictable.

Why Panic Hurts Your Financial Future

Orman acknowledged that feelings of fear and confusion are natural when the economy is turbulent. Job losses, fluctuating stock markets, and mixed signals about tariffs and inflation have left many people feeling uncertain. However, Orman cautioned that making financial decisions out of fear can undermine long-term stability.

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“The absolute worst thing that you can be doing right now is panic and make decisions that hurt your long-term security,” Orman said. “When you make decisions out of fear, it affects you long-term.”

She explained that professional traders often take advantage of market swings, and when individual investors react emotionally — selling when the market dips and buying back when it rises — they end up losing money. Orman stressed that successful investing requires patience and a steady hand.

Focus on What You Can Control

Rather than reacting to short-term market movements, Orman advised listeners to focus on their personal financial foundation. She highlighted several key steps to strengthen financial security, starting with building an emergency fund.

“You have got to have an emergency fund of at least eight to 12 months of must-pay expenses,” Orman said. “If you don't, your number one priority is to absolutely build that up.”

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She also warned against taking on new debt unless absolutely necessary. She said that high-interest debt should be paid down or transferred to a low-interest or zero-interest card where possible.

“Don’t take on any unnecessary debt,” Orman stressed. “No new credit card debt, no new car loans unless it’s absolutely necessary.”

Stay the Course with Investments

When it comes to investing, Orman stays true to what she teaches and advises against trying to time the market. She said that markets naturally go through ups and downs, but they still tend to grow over time. Selling investments when the market drops can lock in losses that investors could have avoided when the market eventually rebounds. 

“Don't get scared and cash out of your investments, especially in your retirement accounts,” Orman said. “If anything, as the market continues down, keep dollar-cost averaging — eventually it will be OK.”

Orman also cautioned against overreacting to news of a potential recession. While a recession could happen, she emphasized that individual financial preparation matters more than economic predictions.

“Whether or not a recession happens, your financial security depends on you and you alone,” she said.

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Build a Game Plan

Orman encouraged listeners to create a personal financial game plan tailored to their situation. That includes setting aside emergency funds, staying invested through market swings, and avoiding emotional decisions driven by short-term news.

“Short-term news should not dictate long-term decisions,” Orman said. “Especially if you have a well-diversified portfolio, especially if you have a plan, especially if you’re doing the right things and you just are staying the course in your dollar cost averaging”

Her advice boils down to maintaining a clear, steady approach — even when headlines are alarming. By staying focused on long-term financial health and resisting the urge to panic, Orman believes individuals can weather economic uncertainty and protect their financial future.

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